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Review by D.Griffiths – Audion mag

I think the enjoyment of this, the third studio album from Code Indigo, may depend upon how you take to new member Louise Eggerton’s “oohing and aahing” vocals. To be honest, I was a little dubious at first, but after a few plays I became hooked.

After almost a year in the making, ‘Timecode’ is a major improvement over the rather patchy ‘Uforia’ and compares very favourably alongside their work on the excellent ‘Blue’ box set. The group remain centred around founder member Robert Fox and David Wright, together with guitarist Andy Lobban, who made such an impressive debut at the acclaimed Derby Cathedral concert in 1998 ( which is now available as part of the ‘Blue’ box set). They are joined by two new members, previously mentioned vocalist Louise, and Dave Massey, who handles rhythm and bass programming.

Robert and David see ‘Timecode’ as a “Fresh beginning” for Code Indigo, with the significant contributions from Eggerton and Massey taking the band into a new dimension. It’s a shade more chilled than earlier works, largely due to the hypnotic bass rhythms that ebb and flow through the album, yet it still retains that unmistakable Code Indigo signature. Those who enjoy the bands gloriously Vangelis-like themes will not be disappointed and Andy Lobban’s superb, Gilmour influenced guitar work continues to invoke that Floydian feel from before. The beautiful, spine-tingling piano motifs are simply the icing on the cake, elevating Code Indigo above many of their contemporaries. The production, by Wright and Massey, is flawless. The ten tracks blend together seamlessly, creating 75 minutes of classic and timeless synth music. There are numerous hauntingly atmospheric passages interspersed between the rhythmic sections, and some pieces have a wonderfully poignant and melancholy air. The album is still peppered with samples, but thankfully these are rarely overdone and are usually interesting and thought provoking.

‘Timecode’ is a journey to savour. Even the seemingly over-sweet ‘Endgames’, (where Eggerton’s “La la” styled vocals invoke a Francis Lai soundtrack!) conceals a more sinister feel. ‘Zero Hour’ and the title track are two numbers that immediately stand out as future classics. With memorable themes and some stunningly beautiful moments, they are destined to become live favourites. For me though, pride of place must go to the superlative ‘Eden to Chaos’. Featuring sweeping synths and fuzzed guitars soaring over an upbeat, punchy rhythm, this has one of those melodic hooks to die for.

Code Indigo’s debut ‘For whom the Bell’ remains one of my all time English synth albums. I think ‘Timecode’ is destined to become another. Definitely recommended!